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Reika Katsumata, associate professor of polymer science and engineering at UMass Amherst, recently received the Young Scientist’s Award as part of the Commendation for Science and Technology by the Japanese Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). The prize recognizes young Japanese researchers, and is considered one of the most prestigious awards in science and technology in Japan.

Katsumata is an expert in creating new materials that can perform in ways never before seen and which solve real-world problems.

“I have always been drawn to research directions that connect ideas and materials that are not typically brought together,” she says. “In my group, we explore how polymers can be used to design new functions at soft–hard interfaces, including in carbon materials, graphene, semiconductors and sustainable polymer systems. I am deeply grateful that this curiosity-driven, team-based effort with my students and collaborators is being recognized through this award.”

More information about Katsumata’s work can be found on the Katsumata Research Group website.